HAIKOU, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – In response to the intense rainfall leading to flooding and potential landslides, authorities have evacuated over 55,000 individuals from high-risk zones across Hainan. The evacuation efforts, which continued through September 14, were prompted by rising rivers and water encroaching on vulnerable communities. The operations targeted low-lying neighborhoods, regions adjacent to waterways, and areas prone to geological hazards. Emergency teams also provided temporary shelter and vital supplies for residents unable to return to their homes.
The adverse weather conditions originated on September 11 when a tropical depression over the China Sea interacted with cold air masses. Subsequently, heavy rainfall spread across southern and central Hainan, impacting regions such as Baoting, Wuzhishan, Wanning, Qionghai, and Lingshui. As rainfall intensified, numerous communities reported flooded roads and disrupted access, prompting local authorities to closely monitor rivers, reservoirs, and mountain areas while emergency teams evacuated residents from danger zones.
The rainfall totals reached record levels before the weather system lost strength. For example, Xiangshui township in Baoting recorded 912.9 millimeters of rain from September 11 until 2 p.m. on September 14. Six townships experienced totals exceeding 700 millimeters within this timeframe, with three of these surpassing 800 millimeters. The extended period of heavy rain heightened the threat of flash floods and landslides in various parts of the island.
Growing evacuation operations across affected regions
By the evening of September 13, authorities had evacuated 31,564 residents as weather conditions deteriorated further. The number of evacuees increased to over 55,000 by 6 p.m. on September 14. The Hainan Provincial Disaster Prevention, Reduction and Relief Committee Office coordinated emergency responses across the affected cities and counties, prioritizing residents near rivers, unstable slopes, and other flood-prone or geologically vulnerable locations.
Flooding and landslides caused significant damage to roads and disrupted electricity and communication networks in parts of Baoting and Wuzhishan. Rescue teams entered affected communities where access was still possible, while utility crews began restoring power and communications as rainfall eased and floodwaters receded. Emergency personnel also checked isolated settlements and transport routes, with local governments continuing damage assessments and relief efforts.
Recovery efforts underway as rainfall subsides
After the rainfall diminished across much of Hainan, the province lifted its Level III heavy-rain warning on September 15. Officials announced that the extreme rain event had largely concluded, enabling more communities to initiate recovery activities. Some schools resumed classes where conditions allowed, and workers began clearing mud, reopening roads, and repairing infrastructure damaged during the deluge. Residents are gradually returning to areas deemed safe.
During the emergency, the Ministry of Emergency Management activated a Level IV national natural disaster relief response for Hainan. Meanwhile, provincial authorities lowered the island’s flood and typhoon emergency response from Level II to Level III on September 14. Five dedicated working groups were dispatched to affected zones to support local recovery efforts. The ongoing work focuses on restoring damaged roads, utilities, and addressing the impacts caused by several days of heavy rainfall.